Zara
The next morning. My knees burned on the rough stone as I scrubbed algae from the courtyard fountains with frozen fingers. Students filed past on their way to breakfast, some whispering, some laughing outright.
I hated how cold the marble tiles felt beneath my knees as I scrubbed the stubborn desk dirt off. My fingers were already numb, soap bubbles gathering under my nails. The early sun cast weak gold across the courtyard, illuminating drifting pollen motes like dusted sparks. I shivered, ignoring the ache in my spine as I bent lower, trying to finish this section before breakfast ended.
A harsh laugh rang out again behind me. My shoulders tensed instantly. I didn't have to turn to know who it was.
"Well, look who's working so hard this morning," Nova drawled, her shad
